Republican-led states across the country are making efforts to strengthen their control over immigration, citing concerns of an ‘invasion.’ This move comes as the issue of immigration takes center stage in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election. Texas, for example, is currently defending its immigration law in a federal appeals court, arguing that illegal immigration should be considered a form of invasion, which would allow the state to expand its power to protect its borders.
In response to Texas’ actions, Republican lawmakers in at least 11 states have proposed similar measures, with six already enacted or under consideration. Louisiana is expected to sign its own immigration measure into law soon. These efforts are part of a broader trend where states are testing the limits of their authority over immigration.
Legal experts and scholars have noted that this year’s push to expand immigration control is accompanied by a significant public relations campaign. Many Republicans, echoing former President Donald J. Trump, have labeled the increase in migration at the southern border as an ‘invasion.’ President Biden, facing pressure from both sides of the political spectrum, recently signed an executive order aimed at curbing asylum, with potential further actions on the horizon.
The proposed measure in Louisiana, to be signed by Governor Jeff Landry, includes provisions for establishing a compact with Texas to address border security. State Senator Valarie Hodges, who authored the legislation, criticized the Biden administration for what she sees as a failure to enforce immigration laws effectively. She, along with other Republicans, views state-level actions as necessary in light of what they perceive as federal inaction.
Overall, the issue of immigration and border security continues to be a hot-button topic, with states taking matters into their own hands to address their concerns. As legal battles unfold and political debates intensify, the future of these immigration control measures remains uncertain. The intersection of state and federal authority in this realm promises to be a complex and contentious issue for the foreseeable future.